The Carboniferous Forest refers to the lush, dense forests that thrived during the Carboniferous period, approximately 359 to 299 million years ago. This era is known for its warm, humid climate, which allowed a diverse range of plant life, including giant ferns, horsetails, and early seed plants, to flourish. These forests played a crucial role in the Earth's carbon cycle by absorbing carbon dioxide and producing oxygen. The remains of these ancient forests eventually contributed to the formation of significant coal deposits, which are vital energy sources today. The Carboniferous period is also notable for the evolution of various animal species, including early amphibians and insects, which adapted to life in these rich ecosystems.